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Nigerian Army’s 32 Artillery Brigade has pledged swift disciplinary action against a soldier implicated in the death of a commercial driver following a confrontation at a military checkpoint in Akunu-Akoko, Ondo State.
In a statement released Thursday in Akure, Maj. Njoka Irabor, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the brigade, confirmed the soldier’s involvement in the Oct. 13 incident, which occurred in the Akoko North-East Local Government Area.
The commercial driver, en route from Akure to Abuja, reportedly encountered mechanical trouble near the checkpoint. Frustrated passengers, demanding a refund, enlisted the help of a soldier stationed at the location.
“Subsequently, a passenger reached out to a soldier deployed at Akunu checkpoint to help the passengers retrieve their money from the driver,” the statement noted.
What followed, according to the Army, was an “uncouth and unprofessional” confrontation. An altercation ensued between the soldier and the driver, leading to physical contact—a clear violation of the Army’s operational code and rules of engagement.
Upon learning of the incident, the brigade said it immediately rushed the driver to a medical facility, covering all medical expenses. He was later referred to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, where he died on Monday, Oct. 14.
“The soldier exhibited an act that is contrary to the Rules of Engagement and Code of Conduct guiding his deployment at the checkpoint,” the Army said, promising full legal accountability and transparency in the disciplinary process.
Describing itself as a “reputable organisation anchored on discipline,” the Nigerian Army extended its condolences to the deceased’s family and pledged to support them through the difficult period. A liaison officer has been assigned to maintain communication with the bereaved family.
According to the statement, the Army has also paid a condolence visit to the family and the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the state. It pledged to cover burial costs and provide educational support for the late driver’s children.
“We will not shy away from our responsibilities,” the statement said, affirming that steps are underway to ensure the family’s welfare and to mitigate the impact of losing their breadwinner.
The Ondo State Government has reportedly lauded the Army’s response and offered its backing in efforts to safeguard the deceased driver’s family’s wellbeing.
